Divine lights dance in Tokyo’s summer night
Basic Information
Tensou Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Koto Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and the mythical ancestress of the Imperial Family of Japan.
- Address: 3-38-35 Kameido, Koto-ku, Tokyo 136-0071
- Phone Number: 03-3681-3042
- Access: 15-minute walk from Kinshicho Station on the JR Sobu Line or Toei Subway Hanzomon Line, or 15-minute walk from Kameido Station on the JR Sobu Line
- Festival Days: September 15th (Thu) to 19th (Tue), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
Tensou Shrine’s annual festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors from all over Tokyo. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese entertainment, as well as food and games.
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Tensou Shrine mikoshi is particularly large and impressive, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets.
Yabusame (Horseback Archery)
Another popular attraction at the festival is the yabusame, or horseback archery. This traditional Japanese martial art involves mounted archers shooting arrows at targets while riding at full gallop. The yabusame at Tensou Shrine is a rare opportunity to see this exciting sport in person.
Kagura Dance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. The kagura dance at Tensou Shrine is performed by a group of young women who wear colorful costumes and move gracefully to the sound of traditional Japanese music.
Food and Games
In addition to the traditional entertainment, the festival also features a variety of food and games. Visitors can enjoy a variety of Japanese street food, such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and taiyaki. There are also a number of games and activities for children, such as goldfish scooping and ring toss.
Blessings and Deities
Tensou Shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and the mythical ancestress of the Imperial Family of Japan. Amaterasu Omikami is revered as the deity of the sun, light, and life, and is believed to bring blessings of good health, prosperity, and happiness.
- Deity: Amaterasu Omikami
- Blessings: Good health, prosperity, happiness
Origin and History
The origins of Tensou Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Koto Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1659.
- Founded: Early Heian period (794-1185)
- Moved to current location: 1659
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Tensou Shrine:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- The annual festival is held on September 15th to 19th.
- The shrine is a popular spot for weddings and other ceremonies.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Tensou Shrine. The parking lot is located behind the shrine, and it can accommodate about 20 cars.
- Location: Behind the shrine
- Capacity: 20 cars
- Fee: Free
Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years
| Type of Stall | Description |
|---|---|
| Takoyaki | A staple at Japanese festivals. Characterized by a crispy outside and a creamy inside. |
| Jaga Butter | A simple yet popular snack of hot potatoes lavishly topped with melted butter. |
| Baby Castella | Small castella cakes, sweet and fluffy treats enjoyed by children and adults alike. |
| Grilled Ayu with Salt | Fresh ayu fish grilled whole with salt, a savory taste of Japanese summer. |
| Shaapin | A unique gourmet item influenced by foreign cuisine, with a chewy skin wrapping the filling. |
| Okonomiyaki | A Japanese grilled dish where you often choose your own ingredients for a personalized flavor. |
| Cotton Candy | A fluffy, sweet snack that’s extremely popular with children. |
| Chocolate Banana | A banana coated in chocolate, a fun and visually appealing dessert. |
| Kushiyaki | Various types of ingredients skewered and grilled, an easy-to-enjoy snack. |
| Yakisoba | Fried noodles mixed with a special sauce, a fast food favorite in Japan. |
